A minute’s applause in memory of Connor Saunders to precede tonight’s Intermediate Cup final between Newhaven and Saltdean

Published:17:14Tuesday 17 April 2012

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Tonight’s Intermediate Cup Final between Nehaven and Saltdean United will be marked by a minute’s applause in memory of Peacehaven footballer Connor Saunders.

The Sussex footballing community has rallied round in stunning fashion since news broke of the death of popular teenager Connor, who died after being punched on Saturday night.

Messages of condolence have poured in from clubs and individual footballers right across the county, some of whom can be read elsewhere on this website, with more to be featured in this Friday’s Sussex Express.

A minute’s silence was held before the Ryman Youth South match between Burgess Hill Town and Lewes U18s last night, and it has been announced that tonight’s Intermediate Cup Final between the two south coast rivals, The Dockers and The Tigers, will be preceded by a minute’s applause.

Connor’s team-mate and friend Rob O’Toole, who scored a hat-trick in what tragically turned out to be Connor’s last ever game, tweeted: “Saltdean v Newhaven cup final tonight kick off 7.30 all try get there before as there will be a minutes applause for our dear friend Connor.”

The game will be played at Sussex FA’s County Ground, Culver Road in Lancing, with that 7.30pm kick off.

Newhaven FC posted a message via Twitter saying: “Newhaven FC would like to send its sincerest condolences to the family and friends of Connor Saunders, whose life was tragically cut short at the weekend.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with all those who knew and loved Connor, and who was just 19-years-old. Rest in peace.

“Tonight’s Intermediate Cup Final against @SaltdeanUnited will be played with heavy hearts following the desperately sad news.”